Alajuelense beats Motagua in Champions League

San Jose (Costa Rica): Costa Rica`s Alajuelense defeated Motagua of Honduras 1-0 on Thursday to move into first place in Group A of the CONCACAF Champions League.

Jonathan McDonald scored on a header in the 27th minute as the referee ignored protests from Motagua players who claimed he was offside.

Alajuelense now has 12 points, three ahead of Mexico`s Morelia and the Los Angeles Galaxy.

Luis Lopez had Motagua`s only real chance in the 57th, but struck his shot straight at the Alajuelense goalkeeper. Alajuelense dominated possession against a second string Motagua, which is 0-5 in the tournament.

On Wednesday in Group A, the Los Angeles Galaxy defeated Mexico`s Morelia 2-1. Morelia hosts Alajuelense on Oct. 18 and Motagua plays the Galaxy on Oct. 20 in the final games in the group.

Also, Mexico`s Santos Laguna and the Seattle Sounders qualified for the last eight of the competition.

The final round of matches in the group stage will be held Oct. 18-20.